Challenging rides and hiking reveal the historic intrigues and proud passions of bewitching Eastern Sicily. We'll view perfectly preserved Greek temples, taste flamboyant specialties, experience local traditions and visit the "Seven Sisters" the heavenly Aeolian Islands.

Highlights

Photo Gallery & Destination Information:
Mt Etna  |  Siracusa  |  Taormina

Day 1: Siracusa (2.5km)

Group arrival at Catania airport. Meet and greet with our Sicilian tour leader and transfer (approx at noon) by private van to Syracuse. Accommodation at the hotel. On your first spin, discover Siracusa, one of the most important Greek colonies, and a cultural and political center for thousands of years. Visit the ancient Neapolis, the archaeological park where all the Greek remains are well preserved. Bike testing in the historical centre of Ortigia. Welcome dinner at a typical Sicilian restaurant. (D) (2.5km)

Day 2: Siracusa - Noto (80km)

We'll bike an archaeological reserve and nature site riding along the coast through historic towns, a brief visit of Noto the capital of the Baroque-style district and enjoying the natural beauty of southern Sicily. (B, D)

Day 3: Ragusa (70km)

Roll through the remote sheep-herding district of Altopiano Ibleo, to reach the modern province of Ragusa. Visit Ragusa Ibla, the old centre of the town, built on a quarry after the 1693 earthquake. An afternoon of leisure at an historic hotel will relax your muscles after the first full day on the bike. (B, D)

Day 4: Ragusa - Caltagirone (75km)

Settled by the Greeks, Caltagirone is known for its azulejos (Spanish style glazed tiles). Explore the mansions and spacious squares of this charming town, and climb La Scala, the magnificent stairway. Accommodation at the hotel and dinner. (B, D)

Day 5: Morgantina - Catania (75km)

Enjoy a panoramic ride over undulating hills to Morgantina, and stroll the extensive excavations of one of the world's best-preserved Greek cities. Proceed to Catania/Acireale area and accommodation at the hotel and dinner. (B, D)

Day 6: Catania - Mt. Etna - Taormina

Visit Catania with its lively fish market and beautiful historical centre. Then, hike up Mt. Etna to see the volcano and absorb the magnificent views. Proceed by van to Taormina and visit the magnificent Greek Theatre. Accommodation at the hotel and dinner. (B, D)

Day 7: Taormina - Lipari (25km)

Transfer by van to Milazzo port and by hydrofoil to Lipari, one of the seven sisters of "the Aeolian Islands" Alicudi, Filicudi, Lipari, Panarea, Salina, Stromboli & Vulcano. Visit the island by bike to view its deep caverns, steep cliffs, and magnificent beaches. Spend the afternoon strolling around the island, and visit the archaeological museum and local shops. Accommodation & dinner at the hotel. (B, D)

Day 8: Salina - Lipari (21km)

Relax on a private boat ride to Salina. Explore Salina's beauty and ancient history by bike. Malvasia wine tasting and local specialties for lunch. Return by boat to Lipari with arrival at the Catania airport at noon..

Day 9: Lipari - Catania

We leave Lipari in the morning, and escort you back to the Catania airport.

Travel Features:

Location	Hotel
(Hotels may change to equivalent accommodations prior to tour)
Siracusa	Hotel Roma 4*
Noto	Hotel Villa Favorita 3*
Ragusa	Locanda Don Serafino 3*
Caltagirone	Hotel Villa San Mauro 3*
Cantania-Acireale	Santa Caterina Hotel 4*
Taormina	Hotel Vello d'Oro 4*
Lipari	Hotel Arciduca 4*

Possible Stop-over Hotels (Albergo) in Catania Pre or Post Tour
David's Note: I've stayed in this area previously (Hotel Duomo) and it's centrally located with quite a few reasonably priced hotels. Many of the cyclists are staying at the Albergo Moderno where English is spoken.
View Map of Piazza Duomo area.
Hotel Moderno***
Hotel Savona***
Hotel Duomo***
Hotel Biscari**
Hotel Bellini
Hotel Corona - No Website